We are Innovators and Forward Thinkers

We Include All in Everything We Do

We Strive to Make an Impact in Your Life

We Strategize and Plan for the Future

About Us

Nationally Recognized and Award-Winning Parks in Carmel, Indiana

Founded in 1991, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) was established through an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between the City of Carmel and Clay Township in Indiana. CCPR was created to serve the nature and fitness needs of the community, manage and develop existing spaces and resources, and create a sustainable future for parks and recreation programs through a financially viable and environmentally conscious parks system. CCPR manages and maintains more than 500 acres of park land and numerous recreation facilities, providing more than 5,000 annual classes and programs for all ages. CCPR contributes to our community’s outstanding quality of life by providing enriching, enjoyable escapes through recreation, fitness, and nature.

Mission Statement

The mission of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is to strengthen our community and serve residents through the acquisition, development, and management of high-quality, innovative parks and facilities for recreation, preservation, and programming.

Vision Statement

We envision an accessible system of vibrant community parks, diverse recreational facilities, sustainable park resources and engaging programs that contribute to healthy individuals and families, an active and tightly-kit community, a thriving economy, and a high quality of life in the City of Carmel and Clay Township.

Together We Will

We work together as one team to benefit the community. We inspire each other and display daily our core values - inclusion, impact, innovation and sustainability.

Glancing at the Past & Looking Forward to the Future

A partnership was formed with Carmel Clay Schools to create a new program - Summer Fun Camp.
This program offered 8 different camp sessions and attracted 160 total campers.

1994

The first General Parks Development Plan was
complete, which included renovations to Meadowlark Park, the creation of Carey Grove Park and the beginning of construction at Flowing Well Park.

1998

Three new parks were created that are still popular in the community today - River Heritage, Prairie Meadow and Hazel Landing Parks.

2001

Celebrating 10 years of operation! The Monon Greenway, “Everybody’s Playground” at River Heritage Park and the splash pads at Inlow and West Parks officially opened to the public.

2005

The first annual Tour de Carmel took place.

2006

Extended School Enrichment, the department’s before and after school program, was first introduced to Carmel Clay Schools.

2007

On Memorial Day, the Monon Center and The Waterpark opened its doors for the first time.

2010

Central Park became the first park in the state of Indiana to become certified by the Indiana Wildlife Federation as wildlife friendly. The department is the first park system in Indiana to be wildlife friendly certified.

2011

Founders Park was dedicated on August 20, and won the Indiana Park & Recreation Association award for Outstanding Park Development.

2012

The FlowRider® opened at The Waterpark, becoming the first of its kind in the state.

2014

Won the National Gold Medal Award, the highest and most prestigious recognition for a park and recreation system, and obtained CAPRA accreditation.

2015

Opened the Central Bark Park, a membership-based safe and clean dog park for our community members to enjoy with their dogs.

2016

Completed construction of the innovative destination playground in Central Park West Commons and officially opened the playground.